Several scientific breakthroughs have led to the development of natural anti-aging skin care products that can potentially slow the more obvious signs of aging. Regular use of formulations which contain known beneficial compounds may reduce the appearance of wrinkles, re-plump sagging or thinning skin and increase elasticity. Most commercial skin creams typically contain a combination of antioxidants, vitamins, retinol, Coenzyme Q 10, Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). When applied topically, results may be seen within weeks or days depending on the relative strength of the product. These creams are generally considered safe alternatives to surgery with minimal side effects reported in most clinical trials. Although an effective skin care routine will not increase longevity it will slow the formation of wrinkles, while maintaining skin tone and clarity.

History of Anti-Aging Research
Interest in longevity or life extension is not a new phenomenon. Legends of a fountain of youth have been told for thousands of years. The most well known is that of the famous explorer Juan Ponce de Leon who was said to have discovered the Fountain of Youth in the year 1513 in what is now the state of Florida. Other writings have depicted water with the ability to heal, and replenish youth including those of Herodotus, Prester John and the Alexander Romance. Folk tales told by earlier natives of the Caribbean also related the story of Bimini, the fabled home to such a body of water.

Man's desire to live longer and healthier has led to further research into the area of life extension. The first notable step in this area occurred in the year 1970 when the American Aging Association was created by Denham Harman, who originated the free-radical theory of aging. The group of scientists acted collectively to share research information in the hope of increasing human life span.

Several books and articles have also been published on the possibility of life extension including No More Dying. The Conquest of Aging and The Extension of Human Life, Joel Kurtzman (1976); The Life Extension Revolution, Saul Kent; Life Extension: A Practical Scientific Approach, Durk Pearson (1983); Maximum Lifespan, Roy Walford (1983) and The Retardation of Aging and Disease by Dietary Restriction by Walford and Weindruch (1998) which focuses on calorie restriction in rodents.

The American Academy of Anti-aging Medicine (A4M) was established in 1992. Although it is not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, the group continues to promote awareness of life extension through supplementation. Work within this area continues today with active research being carried out in the fields of genetics, nutrition and technology.

Anti-Aging Skin Care Treatments
Many anti-aging treatments are still considered in their infancy. While new hypotheses continue to be formulated, the length of time required for scientific investigation and research reduces the likelihood that areas like cryogenics, genetic modification and organ cloning will become a regular part of routine health care in the near future. However, more modest treatments that involve the reduction of skin aging and cell aging through supplementation, creams, hormone therapy and caloric restriction have made some progress. While these can only address some aspects of aging they are still worthwhile areas that continue to be investigated.

Anti-Aging Supplementation
A large part of longevity studies focus on the role of diet and nutrition. Connected to this is supplementation which provides nutrients not readily found in the body or diet because of low intake of certain foods or limited access. The evidence at times may appear contradictory with some diets promoting caloric restriction and others an increase in the types of nutrients consumed.

The free radical theory of aging advocates the use of supplements which contain high enough doses of Vitamin C, Vitamin E Co enzyme Q 10, carnosine, N-acteylcysteine and lipoic acid. These anti-oxidants are believed to have the power to reverse free radical damage to the cells and thus increase longevity. Other compounds that are thought to be beneficial include oxytocin, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), Reserveratrol and erythropoietin (EPO). Some success has been observed in animal models, however, extrapolating these findings to human studies has not always produced clear results. For example, selenium and zinc have been shown to increase the life span of rats and mice, however this has not been proven in human controls. Additionally, toxic effects were reported in some human studies.

However, the daily intake of supplements that include the recommended levels of minerals and vitamins do have the positive effect of reducing vitamin and mineral related deficiencies, which may improve an individual's quality of life.

Anti-Aging Skin Care Creams
Anti-aging creams are moisturizing agents that have the added advantage of reducing or eliminating age related skin issues. While all products will not work with the same efficacy, most will claim to minimize the appearance or wrinkles, lines, blemishes, hyper-pigmentation and other forms of discolorations. Some products do promote the results that are indicated, however, some do not. In general, an effective topical moisturizer will, at least, keep the skin hydrated leaving it less prone to dryness which can lead to premature aging. There are a few compounds that do contribute significantly to the efficacy of these formulations. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA), Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and Retinol have been proven to reduce dermal cell damage.

Anti-Aging Skin Care Compounds
Various compounds in natural lotions, body butters, body oils, eye creams and serums help to decelerate the more obvious signs of aging including sagging of the skin, wrinkling, expression lines and discoloration. These moisturizers infuse the skin with beneficial ingredients which range in potency depending on the strength of the formulation.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids instantly remove dead layers of the dermis revealing newer, more radiant skin. These can be found in over the counter products in concentrations less than 10% or they can be applied professionally as a peel in concentrations as high as 70%. Alpha Hydroxy Acids, in particular, will reduce the appearance of lines but will leave the skin more sensitive to sun damage, thus an SPF must be used in conjunction with creams which contain this compound.
• Retinol, a form of vitamin A, lessens skin discoloration and visibly reduces fine lines and enlarged pores.
• Anti-oxidants help to restore skin cells and promote faster skin re-generation. When applied topically skin is less prone to premature aging.
• Sunscreens will reduce the amount of UV rays that penetrate the skin thereby leaving it less likely to show signs of premature aging.
• Peptides and Coenzyme Q 10 help to restore collagen levels leaving the skin firmer and less prone to sagging.

Other treatments that will have beneficial effects on aging skin include mechanical exfoliation using scrubs and facial massage techniques which help to tone and tighten facial muscles.

Aging is inevitably a part of life, yet its effects can be reduced significantly by using corrective products and modifying the diet. Although further research is needed to understand the full potential of certain compounds in longevity treatments, modest successes in anti-aging skin care have been made. Application of these products as moisturizing and restorative agents will have the greatest impact when used consistently. Over time, a reduction in wrinkles, blemishes, expression lines and sagging should be visible.

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